Former Harris County Commissioner Sylvia Garcia announced Friday that she will run for the Senate seat vacated by the death of Mario Gallegos following his posthumous re-election this week.

Garcia's entry sets up a special election battle that already has local Latino politicians taking sides as state Rep. Carol Alvarado, D-Houston, is expected to officially announce her candidacy on Monday.

"Serving as a social worker, attorney, city controller and county commissioner has provided her broad experience and solid relationships at all levels of government. She is well equipped to fight against the special interests in Austin, putting people first. Sylvia's priorities of education, health care, and jobs are what strengthen families most."

Garcia served on Commissioners Court for eight years. She was defeated for a third term in 2010, the first time an incumbent commissioner had lost in 36 years.

Officially, there is no election to run in yet. Gov. Rick Perry must declare a special election to fill the vacancy.

Former state representative and 2008 U.S. Senate candidate Rick Noriega confirmed Friday that he is considering entering the race, but that it is too early for anyone to be declaring candidacy. It is too soon after Gallegos' death and unclear when a special election might even occur, he said.

Noriega, Bray

"We have a lifelong interest in what happens in this community, so we're going to keep our powder dry," Noriega said when asked if he is running. "We're going to see how this process unfolds without making any commitment."

Republican R.W. Bray, who lost to Gallegos on Tuesday, also said he will run for the seat.

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